Last updated: August 27, 2025
In December, Murmansk, Russian Federation experiences a dramatic winter transformation, characterized by a maximum temperature of 4°C (40°F) and an average low of -7°C (19°F). With temperatures plunging to a chilling minimum of -26°C (-14°F), residents and visitors alike must brace for the harsh cold. The month sees approximately 34 mm (1.4 in) of precipitation over 9 days, creating a damp and frosty atmosphere accentuated by an astonishing 99% humidity. This unique combination of conditions paints a vivid picture of winter life in one of the world's northernmost cities, inviting adventurous souls to explore its icy charm.
In December, Murmansk experiences a notable shift in temperatures as winter firmly establishes its grip on the region. With a minimum temperature dipping to -26°C (-14°F) and an average hovering around -7°C (19°F), this month marks a stark chill compared to the relatively milder November. The maximum temperature reaches only 4°C (40°F), hinting at the incessant cold that characterizes the Arctic winter. This trend of plummeting temperatures prepares the landscape for heavy snow, transforming it into a winter wonderland while also influencing daily life in this northern city. As the year draws to a close, residents brace themselves for the depths of winter, a season defined by its beautiful yet harsh climate.
In December, Murmansk experiences a moderate level of precipitation, with 34 mm (1.4 inches) falling over an average of 9 days. This marks a slight decrease from the previous month's 46 mm, indicating a trend towards drier conditions as winter sets in. The overall pattern of precipitation throughout the year reveals a gradual increase from January to June, peaking in the summer months, before tapering off again in the fall and early winter. Although December is among the drier months, its consistent precipitation serves as a reminder of the region's characteristic Arctic climate, where the interplay of cold and moisture creates unique atmospheric conditions, particularly as the long polar night envelops the city.
As the year draws to a close, December ushers in a peak of humidity in Murmansk, reaching an impressive 99%. This month marks the culmination of steadily rising moisture levels that have been building throughout the fall; November already showcased a significant 97% humidity. The trend clearly highlights how Murmansk experiences its most humid conditions during the winter months, with humidity levels consistently high from January to April. Interestingly, while the earlier months of the year hover around 98%, the transition into spring sees a gradual decrease, suggesting that the bitter cold of winter holds on tightly to moisture before yielding to drier air later in the year. Thus, December not only signals the approaching end of the calendar year but also the height of atmospheric moisture in this Arctic city.
In December, Murmansk, Russian Federation, experiences a UV Index of 0, indicating a low exposure category, which means the risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure is minimal. This trend of low UV levels persists through the winter months, as seen in both January and February, where the UV Index remains at 1. As spring approaches in March, the UV Index nudges up to 2, but still falls within the low exposure category. The transition to moderate levels begins in April, reaching its peak in the summer months of June and July with a maximum index of 5. As the year winds down, the UV Index drops back to its winter values, showcasing the cyclical nature of UV exposure in this Arctic region. For more detailed information, explore Murmansk UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
As winter deepens in Murmansk, December brings an abrupt end to the sunlit days, with no recorded sunshine hours, marking a stark contrast to the vibrant glow of the preceding months. This seasonal shift follows a steady ascent of daylight from January’s modest 8 hours to June’s peak of 396 hours, illustrating a fascinating progression from the long, dark winter months to the radiant heights of midsummer. The gradual decline begins again in August, leading to the brief glimmers of sunlight in fall, yet by the time December arrives, residents find themselves enveloped in the profound shadows of the Polar Night. Despite the absence of sunlight, the allure of Murmansk’s winter landscape remains captivating, offering its own unique beauty in the silence of the season.
In Murmansk, the likelihood of experiencing sunny weather takes a noticeable dip in December, with the chance of sunshine plummeting to a mere 9%. This trend is reflective of the overall winter months, as November shows only a slightly better chance of 10%. As we look back at earlier months, it's evident that sunshine is more prevalent in the summer, peaking in July and June at 33% and 32%, respectively. Conversely, as the year wanes, the sun becomes a rare sight, highlighting Murmansk's long, dark winters. This seasonal variation serves as a reminder of the harsh Arctic climate that blankets the region during December.
In Murmansk, Russian Federation, the journey through the year showcases a striking contrast in daylight duration. As winter takes hold in December, the sun sets into an extended twilight, culminating in a complete absence of daylight with 0 hours of light. This stark decline follows a gradual increase from 5 hours in January and continues through the spring, where by May, daylight peaks at an astonishing 21 hours. The summer months bless the region with nearly round-the-clock sunshine, reaching a remarkable 24 hours in June. However, as the calendar shifts to autumn, the daylight slowly ebbs once again, dwindling down to a mere 7 hours in November, leaving residents in anticipation of the return of the light come February. This cyclical nature of daylight reflects the unique rhythm of life in this northern city, where vast differences in illumination shape the experience of each season.
As December settles over Murmansk, the winds dance at an average speed of 3.1 m/s (7 mph), mirroring the breezes of the preceding month. This slight consistency hints at the region's temperament, where winter's chill is accompanied by a gentle gustiness that remains relatively stable throughout the colder months. While October and November feature a touch brisker with winds of 3.5 m/s (8 mph) and 3.1 m/s (7 mph) respectively, December embraces a tranquil chill, nestled comfortably between these breezy peaks. Over the year, the wind speeds reveal an intriguing pattern: a gradual increase from early spring to late autumn, followed by a subtle retreat as winter grips the northern landscape. This seasonal rhythm creates a unique atmospheric experience, embodying the resilience and beauty of Murmansk's harsh yet magnificent winter.
Weather in Murmansk varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares December’s weather to other months in Murmansk, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
December and January weather in Murmansk exhibit notable similarities and differences. December experiences an average temperature of -7°C (19°F), with a minimum of -26°C (-14°F) and a maximum of 4°C (40°F), while January is slightly colder with an average of -10°C (14°F), a minimum of -30°C (-21°F), and a maximum of 5°C (41°F). Both months see a similar amount of precipitation, with December recording 34 mm (1.4 in) and January slightly less at 32 mm (1.2 in), and both have about 9 days of precipitation. Humidity levels remain high throughout the two months, at 99% in December and 98% in January. For more specific details, you can check Murmansk weather in January.
December and February both present harsh winter conditions, but February tends to be slightly colder. In December, temperatures typically range from a minimum of -26°C (-14°F) to a maximum of 4°C (40°F), with an average of -7°C (19°F) and 34 mm (1.4 in) of precipitation over 9 days. Humidity is notably high at 99%. By February, the temperature drops further, with a minimum of -30°C (-22°F) and an average of -10°C (15°F), while the maximum remains around 4°C (39°F). Precipitation decreases slightly to 33 mm (1.3 in), but occurs on 10 days, with humidity just a touch lower at 98%. For more detailed information, you can visit Murmansk weather in February.
In December, temperatures in the region typically drop to a minimum of -26°C (-14°F) with an average of -7°C (19°F) and a maximum of 4°C (40°F). The month experiences heavy humidity at 99%, alongside a total precipitation of 34 mm (1.4 in) over 9 days. In contrast, March sees a slight increase in average temperature to -5°C (23°F), while the minimum remains the same at -26°C (-14°F) and the maximum reaches 8°C (47°F). Precipitation also rises to 41 mm (1.6 in) spread over 12 days, but humidity decreases to 94%. For more details, you can check Murmansk weather in March.
In December, Murmansk experiences harsh winter conditions, with temperatures ranging from a frigid minimum of -26°C (-14°F) to a maximum of just 4°C (40°F), accompanied by high humidity levels at 99%. Precipitation occurs on about 9 days throughout the month, totaling 34 mm (1.4 in), making it a cold and relatively dry period.
In contrast, April brings a notable shift in weather; the minimum temperature rises to -15°C (5°F), and the maximum can reach a comfortable 16°C (60°F), making the average temperature hover around the freezing point at 0°C (32°F). Although April sees an increase in precipitation to 46 mm (1.8 in) over approximately 12 days, the humidity levels decrease to 89%, indicating a transition towards spring. For more details on what to expect, check out Murmansk weather in April.
In December, weather in Murmansk is characterized by frigid temperatures, with lows plunging to -26°C (-14°F) and an average of -7°C (19°F), making it a stark contrast to May, where the temperatures rise significantly, with a minimum of -7°C (20°F) and an average of 5°C (41°F). Precipitation is more frequent in May, occurring on 15 days with a total of 68 mm (2.7 in), compared to December's 34 mm (1.4 in) spread over 9 days. Additionally, humidity levels remain high throughout both months, peaking at 99% in December and 83% in May, but the milder temperatures of May create a more comfortable atmosphere overall. For more detailed insights, check out Murmansk weather in May.
December and June present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In December, temperatures plummet with a minimum of -26°C (-14°F) and an average temperature of -7°C (19°F), occasionally reaching a maximum of 4°C (40°F). The month is characterized by significant precipitation on about 9 days, accompanied by near-total humidity at 99%. In contrast, June brings a much milder climate with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 0°C (33°F) to a comfortable average of 10°C (50°F), peaking at 27°C (81°F). June experiences higher precipitation, totaling 83 mm (3.3 in) over 15 days, but with a lower humidity level of 84%. For a more detailed look at the weather in June, visit Murmansk weather in June.
December and July in Murmansk represent starkly contrasting weather conditions. In December, temperatures can plummet to a chilling minimum of -26°C (-14°F), with an average of -7°C (19°F) and a maximum of just 4°C (40°F). The month sees high humidity levels of 99%, with precipitation occurring on about 9 days, totaling 34 mm (1.4 in). Conversely, July brings a more temperate climate, with minimum temperatures around 4°C (39°F), an average of 15°C (59°F), and maximums reaching up to 31°C (89°F). Although July experiences slightly more precipitation at 56 mm (2.2 in) over 11 days, the humidity is lower at 86%, creating a markedly different atmosphere. For those interested in specific details about July weather, you can explore more at Murmansk weather in July.
December and August present starkly contrasting weather conditions. In December, temperatures plunge significantly, with a minimum of -26°C (-14°F) and an average around -7°C (19°F), while the maximum reaches only 4°C (40°F). The month experiences high humidity at 99% and receives around 34 mm (1.4 in) of precipitation over about 9 days. In contrast, August offers a much milder climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 2°C (36°F) to a maximum of 29°C (84°F), averaging 12°C (54°F). This month sees a higher precipitation level of 81 mm (3.2 in) spread across 16 days, with humidity slightly lower at 90%. For more details on summer conditions, you can check Murmansk weather in August.
December and September present stark contrasts in weather patterns. In December, temperatures plummet with a minimum of -26°C (-14°F) and an average of -7°C (19°F), while the maximum reaches only 4°C (40°F). The month is characterized by significant precipitation, totaling 34 mm (1.4 in) over 9 days, paired with near-total humidity at 99%. In comparison, September enjoys milder conditions, featuring a minimum of -3°C (28°F) and an average temperature of 8°C (47°F), with highs hitting 22°C (72°F). Rainfall is more abundant in September, amounting to 57 mm (2.3 in) over 11 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 92%. For more detailed insights on September's climate, visit Murmansk weather in September.
In Murmansk, December's weather is marked by significantly colder temperatures, with an average of -7°C (19°F) and a maximum that only reaches 4°C (40°F). In contrast, October offers a relatively milder environment, with average temperatures around 2°C (35°F) and highs of 13°C (55°F). Additionally, December experiences higher humidity levels at 99%, adding to the chill in the air, while October maintains a slightly lower humidity of 95%. Precipitation is also more frequent in October, with rain or snow occurring on 13 days and totaling 55 mm (2.2 in), compared to December's 34 mm (1.4 in) over 9 days. For more details about October's weather specifically, you can visit Murmansk weather in October.
In comparing the weather of December and November, December typically experiences a colder climate, with average temperatures peaking at -7°C (19°F) compared to November's warmer average of -3°C (26°F). The maximum temperatures in December reach only up to 4°C (40°F), while November can be slightly milder at 7°C (45°F). Precipitation is also varied, with December yielding 34 mm (1.4 in) over 9 days, whereas November sees a higher precipitation of 46 mm (1.8 in) across 11 days. Humidity remains high in both months, but December is slightly more humid at 99%, compared to November's 97%. For a more detailed look at November's atmospheric conditions, you can refer to Murmansk weather in November.
December in Murmansk marks a distinct transition into winter, showcasing a landscape where the chill deepens and daylight dwindles. The average temperatures dip significantly, often reaching bitter lows that contrast sharply with the milder conditions of earlier months. This month also introduces a high humidity level, creating a crisp atmosphere that intensifies the cold. While December sees an uptick in precipitation, the coupling of snow with the city's stunning Arctic scenery creates a magical winter wonderland. For those curious about the broader patterns and nuances of Murmansk's weather, explore the full details at Murmansk Climate.